12 Sneaky Signs of Anxiety

For some people, their anxiety and panic attacks are extremely obvious, and they always know if certain habits or traits are from anxiety. But other things can be very subtle and you might not even know some of your habits are related to your anxiety.

 Chronic Indecisiveness

If you find yourself struggling to make decisions, big or small, it could be a symptom of anxiety. Chronic indecisiveness isn't just about being cautious; it's often rooted in a fear of making the wrong choice, which leads to significant stress and worry. This anxiety can make you feel paralyzed when faced with decisions, constantly weighing options and potential outcomes, which can be exhausting and time-consuming. Recognizing this pattern can help you take steps to manage your anxiety, easing the decision-making process.

Perfectionism

Perfectionism is often seen as a positive trait, but it can also be a manifestation of anxiety. If you're always striving for perfection, setting excessively high standards for yourself and others, it might be driven by an underlying fear of failure or making mistakes. This relentless pursuit can lead to significant anxiety, as the pressure to not make any mistakes can be overwhelming. Learning to accept that perfection is unattainable and embracing 'good enough' can reduce this anxiety.

Constant Tiredness

Feeling constantly tired, despite getting enough sleep, can be a sign of anxiety. Anxiety can mentally and physically drain you, consuming your energy levels as you cope with ongoing worry. This type of fatigue isn't relieved by rest alone because it's not just physical tiredness but also psychological exhaustion. Acknowledging and addressing the root cause of your anxiety is essential for restoring your energy levels.

Irritability

Increased irritability can often be overlooked as a sign of anxiety. When you're anxious, your body is in a constant state of heightened awareness, which can make you more susceptible to agitation and quick to anger, even in situations that wouldn't normally bother you. Recognizing this irritability as a symptom of anxiety is the first step in managing it effectively.

Restlessness

Feeling unable to sit still, constantly feeling like you need to be doing something, or experiencing an overwhelming urge to move can be symptoms of anxiety. This restlessness is not just a physical need to move but can also be a mental struggle with calming your thoughts. It's a common manifestation of anxiety, particularly in adults, and recognizing it can help you seek appropriate strategies to alleviate it.

Muscle Tension

Persistent muscle tension, such as clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth, especially in situations that don't pose immediate physical threats, can be a physical manifestation of anxiety. This tension might go unnoticed until it results in physical pain or discomfort. Regular relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can help manage this tension and reduce the overall level of anxiety.

Overplanning

If you find yourself excessively planning every detail of your activities and daily life, it might be driven by anxiety. Overplanning is often a way to cope with uncertainty, a common source of anxiety. By trying to account for every possible scenario, you may feel like you are keeping your anxiety at bay. However, this can become a compulsive behavior that, in itself, perpetuates more anxiety, especially when things do not go as planned.

Avoidance Behavior

Avoiding situations that make you anxious might seem like an effective way to manage your symptoms, but it can actually be a sign of underlying anxiety. This behavior can limit your experiences and affect your personal growth and relationships. Recognizing and confronting the situations you tend to avoid can help reduce anxiety over time, as avoidance typically reinforces fear.

Compulsive Behaviors

Compulsive behaviors, such as repeated checking or excessive cleaning, are often performed in an attempt to manage or reduce anxiety. These behaviors can provide a temporary sense of relief from anxiety but typically become habitual and interfere with daily life. Understanding these as symptoms of anxiety can be crucial in seeking the right treatment, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, which is effective in addressing these behaviors.

Nail Biting or Skin Picking

Nail biting or skin picking are common habits that may also be signs of anxiety. These behaviors are often used subconsciously as a way to relieve stress or soothe anxious feelings. However, they can lead to physical harm and feelings of shame or embarrassment, which can, in turn, increase anxiety. Recognizing these habits as linked to anxiety is important in addressing the root cause and finding healthier ways to cope.

Difficulty Concentrating

Anxiety can significantly affect your ability to concentrate. Worry and fear can consume your thoughts, making it difficult to focus on tasks at hand or to retain information. This can affect your productivity and your sense of self-efficacy, leading to more stress and anxiety. Addressing concentration difficulties with mindfulness or focus-enhancing strategies can help alleviate this symptom.

Gastrointestinal Problems

Anxiety can manifest physically as gastrointestinal distress. Symptoms like stomachaches, nausea, or diarrhea when you are stressed or anxious are not uncommon. The gastrointestinal tract is sensitive to emotion; feelings of anxiety can trigger symptoms that are similar to those seen in gastrointestinal disorders. Managing anxiety with lifestyle changes and professional help can alleviate both the psychological and physical symptoms.

Is anxiety taking over your life? Check out our free e-course for tips to improve your life or call our office at 317-471-8996 and set up an appointment with us.